What do you think?
Rate this book
The Crucible #2
The Wounded Hawk
The Demon King wears the Crown of England and only strong enough to resist love can defeat him.
756 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2001
20 people are currently reading
693 people want to read
About the author
Sara Douglass
65 books1,030 followersDouglass was born in Penola, South Australia. She attended Annesley College, in Wayville, a suburb of Adelaide. She studied for her BA while working as a Registered Nurse, and later completed her PhD in early modern English History. She became a lecturer in medieval history at La Trobe University, Bendigo. While there she completed her first novel, BattleAxe, which launched her as a popular fantasy author in Australia, and later as an international success.
Until the mid-2000s, Douglass hosted a bulletin board on her website, with the aim of encouraging creative thinking and constructive criticism of others' work. She maintained an online blog about the restoration project of her house and garden entitled Notes from Nonsuch in Tasmania.
In 2008, Douglass was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. She underwent treatment, but in late 2010 the cancer returned. She died on 27 September 2011, aged 54.
She also wrote under her real name Sara Warneke.
Until the mid-2000s, Douglass hosted a bulletin board on her website, with the aim of encouraging creative thinking and constructive criticism of others' work. She maintained an online blog about the restoration project of her house and garden entitled Notes from Nonsuch in Tasmania.
In 2008, Douglass was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. She underwent treatment, but in late 2010 the cancer returned. She died on 27 September 2011, aged 54.
She also wrote under her real name Sara Warneke.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
August 9, 2018
"I know," Tyler said, "but only death can remake the world. Isn’t that what Christ’s death taught us?"
I liked this book better than the first one. Thomas is less of an insufferable ass so he’s a lot easier to take. That said, he still does at least two things that I consider unforgivable…although the second thing is complicated…but, still, he didn’t have to make the choice he did. The truth is that I spent a lot of time in this book not much liking any of the male characters. The women, though, they all deserve standing ovations as far as I’m concerned.
Thomas doesn’t actually spend much time looking for his predecessor’s casket – the one that contains the truth about the battle between angels and demons – but this is understandable given that he and his Lancastrian allies are trying to survive the rule of the newly crowned King Richard II. Since Thomas believes that Richard is the prophesied Demon King he’s been warned about, he knows that he must be extra careful with his movements.
I really enjoyed all the palace intrigue, the behind-the-scenes machinations, and the maneuvering for power by pretty much everyone. But as interesting as all of that was, I also continue to appreciate how the author incorporates actual events from history though she tweaks the motivations that spark them. There was the Battle of Portiers and the division in the Catholic Church in the last book. This time we see the Peasant’s Revolt of 1381 and the Siege of Orleans which, like Joan of Arc herself, has been moved up some 50 years in this alternate timeline.
At this point, I’d be reading these books even without the supernatural element. That said, the little twist on Christian doctrine and theology at the end was inspired.
"We have all travelled further down the road," Margaret said eventually, very softly, "but the journey is far from over."
I liked this book better than the first one. Thomas is less of an insufferable ass so he’s a lot easier to take. That said, he still does at least two things that I consider unforgivable…although the second thing is complicated…but, still, he didn’t have to make the choice he did. The truth is that I spent a lot of time in this book not much liking any of the male characters. The women, though, they all deserve standing ovations as far as I’m concerned.
Thomas doesn’t actually spend much time looking for his predecessor’s casket – the one that contains the truth about the battle between angels and demons – but this is understandable given that he and his Lancastrian allies are trying to survive the rule of the newly crowned King Richard II. Since Thomas believes that Richard is the prophesied Demon King he’s been warned about, he knows that he must be extra careful with his movements.
I really enjoyed all the palace intrigue, the behind-the-scenes machinations, and the maneuvering for power by pretty much everyone. But as interesting as all of that was, I also continue to appreciate how the author incorporates actual events from history though she tweaks the motivations that spark them. There was the Battle of Portiers and the division in the Catholic Church in the last book. This time we see the Peasant’s Revolt of 1381 and the Siege of Orleans which, like Joan of Arc herself, has been moved up some 50 years in this alternate timeline.
At this point, I’d be reading these books even without the supernatural element. That said, the little twist on Christian doctrine and theology at the end was inspired.
"We have all travelled further down the road," Margaret said eventually, very softly, "but the journey is far from over."
September 22, 2011
http://www.rantingdragon.com/the-woun...
This review contains minor spoilers for The Nameless Day.
The Wounded Hawk is the second installment in Sara Douglass’s epic historical fantasy trilogy, The Crucible. The winner of Aurealis Award for Best Fantasy Novel in 2001, this impressive novel is much more than just a placefiller leading up to the trilogy conclusion, The Crippled Angel.
Many of the major plot developments in the series take place here, as well as substantial world building and further characterisation of each of the many participants in the dangerous game playing out between various factions both earthly and celestial. This is where the series really comes into its own as Douglass takes her readers on a gripping journey, dazzling in its scope and encompassing countless unexpected twists and turns.
The Wounded Hawk begins a few months after the events of The Nameless Day, with Thomas Neville having narrowly escaped serious reprimand for casting aside his vows to the church, and continuing his search for the mysterious casket that holds the key to wiping the demons off the face of the earth. Although he now shelters under the protection of his childhood friend Hal (Henry) of Bolingbroke, and his powerful father John of Gaunt, Neville has many enemies both known and unknown to him. Some seek to prevent the success of his quest while others act upon their own, more personal vendettas. Furthermore, the war between England and France continues, while beneath society’s surface stirs civil unrest, sowing the seeds of rebellion amongst noblemen and peasants alike.
Superb writing
Once again Douglass showcases her remarkable talents for genre blending and combining multiple narratives while maintaining pace and keeping the reader interested. Innumerable subplots simultaneously unfold in various locations throughout Europe, yet all interweave and their various repercussions significantly impact the story as a whole. Her prose flows effortlessly and contains just the right amount of description to absorb the reader in the sights and sounds of this alternate fourteenth century without becoming tedious or excessive.
Dynamic characterisation
Throughout The Wounded Hawk, Douglass does an excellent job of developing and offering further insight into the characters we met in the previous novel while introducing many more into the fray. Our perceptions of certain characters are challenged as they reveal further motives and ambitions and develop in response to the events that unfold around them. A cold-hearted political player may reveal a softer, more human side, while a previously irreproachable character may act ruthlessly when their interests are threatened. Even the most despicable characters are, more often than not, a product of their environment and just as prone to manipulation by their peers.
Alliances can change in a heartbeat and almost no one is really who they seem. Neville, the protagonist who so irked readers in the first book, begins to show some redeeming qualities as he is torn between what he has always believed is right and what is now revealed to him.
Heightened action
The Wounded Hawk outdoes its predecessor tenfold when it comes to action and pacing. What’s more, it does this without neglecting other elements such as world building and charater development. Various schemes and promises, the foundations of which were laid in The Nameless Day, finally come into fruition in The Wounded Hawk. Battles are waged throughout England and France alike, countless plots unfold, and civil dissatisfaction within the English peasantry reaches breaking point. Do not make the mistake, however, of assuming that this novel only builds upon previously constructed narratives. Many exciting new developments are introduced to be resolved either within this novel or in the trilogy’s epic conclusion.
Gritty and confronting
The Crucible trilogy, in essence, is an extremely bold and gritty work of fantasy that doesn’t balk at the thought of gore or attempt to shirk possible controversy. The Wounded Hawk does contain a number of particularly confronting scenes and depictions of graphic violence, some of which are sexual in nature. Those who are averse to such content may want to give this one a miss. For those who are not deterred, most of these scenes are not merely gratuitous, but serve a purpose within the greater context of the story and aim to provoke thought in the reader. For instance an elaborate and rather shocking deception takes place in the course of the story that, while serving its distinct purpose, causes substantial hurt to various individuals. Desperate times may call for desperate measures, but do the ends really justify the means in this case? Or could a better way to the same goal have been found? One should also be aware that Douglass presents a unique reimagining of Christian mythos throughout the series that may be considered sacreligious or offensive to some readers. While some religious icons are portrayed in a sympathetic, though unconventional, light, many others come across far more negatively.
Why should you read this book?
This brilliant and daring example of character driven historical fantasy more than fulfills the promises of the previous book. It is an engrossing, well-plotted, and thought provoking novel with an interesting premise that is relatively unique in the fantasy genre. Even if you were unsure about The Nameless Day, The Wounded Hawk is definitely worth a look and has previously converted many critics of the series. If you have enjoyed The Crucible trilogy so far, I would strongly recommend that you get your hands on a copy of this as soon as possible. It may also be wise to grab a copy of the third installment, The Crippled Angel, while you’re at it, as once you start reading you may find yourself not wanting to stop or endure a tortourously suspenseful wait to find out what happens next.
This review contains minor spoilers for The Nameless Day.
The Wounded Hawk is the second installment in Sara Douglass’s epic historical fantasy trilogy, The Crucible. The winner of Aurealis Award for Best Fantasy Novel in 2001, this impressive novel is much more than just a placefiller leading up to the trilogy conclusion, The Crippled Angel.
Many of the major plot developments in the series take place here, as well as substantial world building and further characterisation of each of the many participants in the dangerous game playing out between various factions both earthly and celestial. This is where the series really comes into its own as Douglass takes her readers on a gripping journey, dazzling in its scope and encompassing countless unexpected twists and turns.
The Wounded Hawk begins a few months after the events of The Nameless Day, with Thomas Neville having narrowly escaped serious reprimand for casting aside his vows to the church, and continuing his search for the mysterious casket that holds the key to wiping the demons off the face of the earth. Although he now shelters under the protection of his childhood friend Hal (Henry) of Bolingbroke, and his powerful father John of Gaunt, Neville has many enemies both known and unknown to him. Some seek to prevent the success of his quest while others act upon their own, more personal vendettas. Furthermore, the war between England and France continues, while beneath society’s surface stirs civil unrest, sowing the seeds of rebellion amongst noblemen and peasants alike.
Superb writing
Once again Douglass showcases her remarkable talents for genre blending and combining multiple narratives while maintaining pace and keeping the reader interested. Innumerable subplots simultaneously unfold in various locations throughout Europe, yet all interweave and their various repercussions significantly impact the story as a whole. Her prose flows effortlessly and contains just the right amount of description to absorb the reader in the sights and sounds of this alternate fourteenth century without becoming tedious or excessive.
Dynamic characterisation
Throughout The Wounded Hawk, Douglass does an excellent job of developing and offering further insight into the characters we met in the previous novel while introducing many more into the fray. Our perceptions of certain characters are challenged as they reveal further motives and ambitions and develop in response to the events that unfold around them. A cold-hearted political player may reveal a softer, more human side, while a previously irreproachable character may act ruthlessly when their interests are threatened. Even the most despicable characters are, more often than not, a product of their environment and just as prone to manipulation by their peers.
Alliances can change in a heartbeat and almost no one is really who they seem. Neville, the protagonist who so irked readers in the first book, begins to show some redeeming qualities as he is torn between what he has always believed is right and what is now revealed to him.
Heightened action
The Wounded Hawk outdoes its predecessor tenfold when it comes to action and pacing. What’s more, it does this without neglecting other elements such as world building and charater development. Various schemes and promises, the foundations of which were laid in The Nameless Day, finally come into fruition in The Wounded Hawk. Battles are waged throughout England and France alike, countless plots unfold, and civil dissatisfaction within the English peasantry reaches breaking point. Do not make the mistake, however, of assuming that this novel only builds upon previously constructed narratives. Many exciting new developments are introduced to be resolved either within this novel or in the trilogy’s epic conclusion.
Gritty and confronting
The Crucible trilogy, in essence, is an extremely bold and gritty work of fantasy that doesn’t balk at the thought of gore or attempt to shirk possible controversy. The Wounded Hawk does contain a number of particularly confronting scenes and depictions of graphic violence, some of which are sexual in nature. Those who are averse to such content may want to give this one a miss. For those who are not deterred, most of these scenes are not merely gratuitous, but serve a purpose within the greater context of the story and aim to provoke thought in the reader. For instance an elaborate and rather shocking deception takes place in the course of the story that, while serving its distinct purpose, causes substantial hurt to various individuals. Desperate times may call for desperate measures, but do the ends really justify the means in this case? Or could a better way to the same goal have been found? One should also be aware that Douglass presents a unique reimagining of Christian mythos throughout the series that may be considered sacreligious or offensive to some readers. While some religious icons are portrayed in a sympathetic, though unconventional, light, many others come across far more negatively.
Why should you read this book?
This brilliant and daring example of character driven historical fantasy more than fulfills the promises of the previous book. It is an engrossing, well-plotted, and thought provoking novel with an interesting premise that is relatively unique in the fantasy genre. Even if you were unsure about The Nameless Day, The Wounded Hawk is definitely worth a look and has previously converted many critics of the series. If you have enjoyed The Crucible trilogy so far, I would strongly recommend that you get your hands on a copy of this as soon as possible. It may also be wise to grab a copy of the third installment, The Crippled Angel, while you’re at it, as once you start reading you may find yourself not wanting to stop or endure a tortourously suspenseful wait to find out what happens next.
July 9, 2012
The Wounded Hawk, book two of The Crucible series, continues the high standard, galloping plot and action of the first book. Firmly ensconced back in England and still pursuing Wynken de Word's casket, Thomas Neville finds his vows as a Dominican no longer serve his purpose. Reneging on these and earning the eternal enmity of the head of the order, Thorsby, Neville once more embraces his origins as a nobleman and firm friend and ally of Henry Bolingbroke, the popular Hal. Ensconced within the Lancastrian household, Neville finds himself at the centre of huge political changes: kings and heirs fall and new ones rise - but are they angel or demon spawn? And without Wynken's casket, how will he know? Complicating matters is Neville's undeniable attraction to Margaret, a woman who bears his children, who he desires above all others, weds but never loves. Believing her to be a demon, Neville finds his beliefs and expectations sorely tested and the world as he knows it turned upside down. Hovering over events is his mentor, the Archangel Michael, never allowing Neville to forget his purpose and the price he must both exact and pay to save the world from the demons.
Once kore, Douglass' incredible grasp of history and deft weaving of fact and fantasy is flawless. Against the backdrop of the Lollard uprising and subsequent violence, Joan of Arc's triumphs in France and increasing calls for the powers of the church to be, at the very least, subdued and/or accounted for, Douglass uses the Manichean battle between angels and demons to explore deeply philosophical questions about faith, love, power, hope and trust. Thomas Neville, a doubting Thomas if there was one, is shaping up to be the battleground upon which the final war between good and evil will be fought. Only, where once Neville was firm about what and who constituted good and who evil, he finds the events he's swept up in and the people about whom he was once so sure, upset his preconceived and reductive notions and force him to examine himself and even the edicts of those he worships.
Neville is still the unlikeliest of heroes, but in book two, Douglass allows him to grow and change. He is far more human, approachable and more ready to admit his mistakes. Fatherhood and being a husband suit him to a point. But when his moral compass is set spinning, the old, violent Thomas erupts. Characters of which we were so sure also reveal themselves to be more than black or white and thus, among the shadows they create, new heroes and villains emerge, paving the way for a climactic book three.
If you love your history fantastical, characters rich and complex, plot fast and clear, this book and series is for you.
Once kore, Douglass' incredible grasp of history and deft weaving of fact and fantasy is flawless. Against the backdrop of the Lollard uprising and subsequent violence, Joan of Arc's triumphs in France and increasing calls for the powers of the church to be, at the very least, subdued and/or accounted for, Douglass uses the Manichean battle between angels and demons to explore deeply philosophical questions about faith, love, power, hope and trust. Thomas Neville, a doubting Thomas if there was one, is shaping up to be the battleground upon which the final war between good and evil will be fought. Only, where once Neville was firm about what and who constituted good and who evil, he finds the events he's swept up in and the people about whom he was once so sure, upset his preconceived and reductive notions and force him to examine himself and even the edicts of those he worships.
Neville is still the unlikeliest of heroes, but in book two, Douglass allows him to grow and change. He is far more human, approachable and more ready to admit his mistakes. Fatherhood and being a husband suit him to a point. But when his moral compass is set spinning, the old, violent Thomas erupts. Characters of which we were so sure also reveal themselves to be more than black or white and thus, among the shadows they create, new heroes and villains emerge, paving the way for a climactic book three.
If you love your history fantastical, characters rich and complex, plot fast and clear, this book and series is for you.
February 3, 2009
The more the series continues, the better it gets. I do not know which characters I like, which ones I hate. I have never been so confused about who the bad guys are and who I am supposed to support. But the plot is interesting and I enjoyed the twists and turns.
June 14, 2023
I hate giving this book 3 stars, but it could easily have been 2. Or 4, or 5!
The book is phenomenal from start to (near) finish. The plot line is riveting, the characters dynamic, and even though little action occurs throughout large portions of the story, the political drama alone is enough to keep me far more interested than anything from the first book in the series did. It kept me reading tens of pages a day at a rate I haven’t had a book do in ages. Then the last 50 pages happened.
The last 50 pages of this 600 page book reveal a massive twist, which has been hinted throughout but fully reveals itself at this point. Some reviewers seem to appreciate the twist, but it completely ruined my experience of this series, to the point where I can’t revisit this book or the previous and seriously doubt I’ll attempt the next in the series, or any of this author’s other work. The twist is so blunt, otherworldly and unexpected that it completely shatters the reader’s perception of characters and plot; not in the good way. Plot points make no sense anymore. Characters can’t be loved or hated anymore; just stuck in this confusing limbo where even the main character doesn’t seem to understand what motivations are driving characters around him. The book itself is built on exploring medieval and theological fantasy, but when you understand the historical/theological fundamentals of what the twist is built upon, the suspension of disbelief is a ridiculous expectation of the reader.
Although I adored 3/4 of this novel, I cannot read it again because of the final act and revelation. Avoid like the plague (like the author did where a return of the Black Death is explicitly mentioned within the blurb of the book yet never actually returns/appears in the novel itself).
The book is phenomenal from start to (near) finish. The plot line is riveting, the characters dynamic, and even though little action occurs throughout large portions of the story, the political drama alone is enough to keep me far more interested than anything from the first book in the series did. It kept me reading tens of pages a day at a rate I haven’t had a book do in ages. Then the last 50 pages happened.
The last 50 pages of this 600 page book reveal a massive twist, which has been hinted throughout but fully reveals itself at this point. Some reviewers seem to appreciate the twist, but it completely ruined my experience of this series, to the point where I can’t revisit this book or the previous and seriously doubt I’ll attempt the next in the series, or any of this author’s other work. The twist is so blunt, otherworldly and unexpected that it completely shatters the reader’s perception of characters and plot; not in the good way. Plot points make no sense anymore. Characters can’t be loved or hated anymore; just stuck in this confusing limbo where even the main character doesn’t seem to understand what motivations are driving characters around him. The book itself is built on exploring medieval and theological fantasy, but when you understand the historical/theological fundamentals of what the twist is built upon, the suspension of disbelief is a ridiculous expectation of the reader.
Although I adored 3/4 of this novel, I cannot read it again because of the final act and revelation. Avoid like the plague (like the author did where a return of the Black Death is explicitly mentioned within the blurb of the book yet never actually returns/appears in the novel itself).
October 23, 2011
Also published under The Ranting Dragon
This review contains minor spoilers for The Nameless Day.
The Wounded Hawk is the second installment in Sara Douglass’s epic historical fantasy trilogy, The Crucible. The winner of Aurealis Award for Best Fantasy Novel in 2001, this impressive novel is much more than just a placefiller leading up to the trilogy conclusion, The Crippled Angel.
Many of the major plot developments in the series take place here, as well as substantial world building and further characterisation of each of the many participants in the dangerous game playing out between various factions both earthly and celestial. This is where the series really comes into its own as Douglass takes her readers on a gripping journey, dazzling in its scope and encompassing countless unexpected twists and turns.
The Wounded Hawk begins a few months after the events of The Nameless Day, with Thomas Neville having narrowly escaped serious reprimand for casting aside his vows to the church, and continuing his search for the mysterious casket that holds the key to wiping the demons off the face of the earth. Although he now shelters under the protection of his childhood friend Hal (Henry) of Bolingbroke, and his powerful father John of Gaunt, Neville has many enemies both known and unknown to him. Some seek to prevent the success of his quest while others act upon their own, more personal vendettas. Furthermore, the war between England and France continues, while beneath society’s surface stirs civil unrest, sowing the seeds of rebellion amongst noblemen and peasants alike.
Superb writing
Once again Douglass showcases her remarkable talents for genre blending and combining multiple narratives while maintaining pace and keeping the reader interested. Innumerable subplots simultaneously unfold in various locations throughout Europe, yet all interweave and their various repercussions significantly impact the story as a whole. Her prose flows effortlessly and contains just the right amount of description to absorb the reader in the sights and sounds of this alternate fourteenth century without becoming tedious or excessive.
Dynamic characterisation
Throughout The Wounded Hawk, Douglass does an excellent job of developing and offering further insight into the characters we met in the previous novel while introducing many more into the fray. Our perceptions of certain characters are challenged as they reveal further motives and ambitions and develop in response to the events that unfold around them. A cold-hearted political player may reveal a softer, more human side, while a previously irreproachable character may act ruthlessly when their interests are threatened. Even the most despicable characters are, more often than not, a product of their environment and just as prone to manipulation by their peers.
Alliances can change in a heartbeat and almost no one is really who they seem. Neville, the protagonist who so irked readers in the first book, begins to show some redeeming qualities as he is torn between what he has always believed is right and what is now revealed to him.
Heightened action
The Wounded Hawk outdoes its predecessor tenfold when it comes to action and pacing. What’s more, it does this without neglecting other elements such as world building and charater development. Various schemes and promises, the foundations of which were laid in The Nameless Day, finally come into fruition in The Wounded Hawk. Battles are waged throughout England and France alike, countless plots unfold, and civil dissatisfaction within the English peasantry reaches breaking point. Do not make the mistake, however, of assuming that this novel only builds upon previously constructed narratives. Many exciting new developments are introduced to be resolved either within this novel or in the trilogy’s epic conclusion.
Gritty and confronting
The Crucible trilogy, in essence, is an extremely bold and gritty work of fantasy that doesn’t balk at the thought of gore or attempt to shirk possible controversy. The Wounded Hawk does contain a number of particularly confronting scenes and depictions of graphic violence, some of which are sexual in nature. Those who are averse to such content may want to give this one a miss. For those who are not deterred, most of these scenes are not merely gratuitous, but serve a purpose within the greater context of the story and aim to provoke thought in the reader. For instance an elaborate and rather shocking deception takes place in the course of the story that, while serving its distinct purpose, causes substantial hurt to various individuals. Desperate times may call for desperate measures, but do the ends really justify the means in this case? Or could a better way to the same goal have been found? One should also be aware that Douglass presents a unique reimagining of Christian mythos throughout the series that may be considered sacreligious or offensive to some readers. While some religious icons are portrayed in a sympathetic, though unconventional, light, many others come across far more negatively.
Why should you read this book?
This brilliant and daring example of character driven historical fantasy more than fulfills the promises of the previous book. It is an engrossing, well-plotted, and thought provoking novel with an interesting premise that is relatively unique in the fantasy genre. Even if you were unsure about The Nameless Day, The Wounded Hawk is definitely worth a look and has previously converted many critics of the series. If you have enjoyed The Crucible trilogy so far, I would strongly recommend that you get your hands on a copy of this as soon as possible. It may also be wise to grab a copy of the third installment, The Crippled Angel, while you’re at it, as once you start reading you may find yourself not wanting to stop or endure a tortourously suspenseful wait to find out what happens next.
This review contains minor spoilers for The Nameless Day.
The Wounded Hawk is the second installment in Sara Douglass’s epic historical fantasy trilogy, The Crucible. The winner of Aurealis Award for Best Fantasy Novel in 2001, this impressive novel is much more than just a placefiller leading up to the trilogy conclusion, The Crippled Angel.
Many of the major plot developments in the series take place here, as well as substantial world building and further characterisation of each of the many participants in the dangerous game playing out between various factions both earthly and celestial. This is where the series really comes into its own as Douglass takes her readers on a gripping journey, dazzling in its scope and encompassing countless unexpected twists and turns.
The Wounded Hawk begins a few months after the events of The Nameless Day, with Thomas Neville having narrowly escaped serious reprimand for casting aside his vows to the church, and continuing his search for the mysterious casket that holds the key to wiping the demons off the face of the earth. Although he now shelters under the protection of his childhood friend Hal (Henry) of Bolingbroke, and his powerful father John of Gaunt, Neville has many enemies both known and unknown to him. Some seek to prevent the success of his quest while others act upon their own, more personal vendettas. Furthermore, the war between England and France continues, while beneath society’s surface stirs civil unrest, sowing the seeds of rebellion amongst noblemen and peasants alike.
Superb writing
Once again Douglass showcases her remarkable talents for genre blending and combining multiple narratives while maintaining pace and keeping the reader interested. Innumerable subplots simultaneously unfold in various locations throughout Europe, yet all interweave and their various repercussions significantly impact the story as a whole. Her prose flows effortlessly and contains just the right amount of description to absorb the reader in the sights and sounds of this alternate fourteenth century without becoming tedious or excessive.
Dynamic characterisation
Throughout The Wounded Hawk, Douglass does an excellent job of developing and offering further insight into the characters we met in the previous novel while introducing many more into the fray. Our perceptions of certain characters are challenged as they reveal further motives and ambitions and develop in response to the events that unfold around them. A cold-hearted political player may reveal a softer, more human side, while a previously irreproachable character may act ruthlessly when their interests are threatened. Even the most despicable characters are, more often than not, a product of their environment and just as prone to manipulation by their peers.
Alliances can change in a heartbeat and almost no one is really who they seem. Neville, the protagonist who so irked readers in the first book, begins to show some redeeming qualities as he is torn between what he has always believed is right and what is now revealed to him.
Heightened action
The Wounded Hawk outdoes its predecessor tenfold when it comes to action and pacing. What’s more, it does this without neglecting other elements such as world building and charater development. Various schemes and promises, the foundations of which were laid in The Nameless Day, finally come into fruition in The Wounded Hawk. Battles are waged throughout England and France alike, countless plots unfold, and civil dissatisfaction within the English peasantry reaches breaking point. Do not make the mistake, however, of assuming that this novel only builds upon previously constructed narratives. Many exciting new developments are introduced to be resolved either within this novel or in the trilogy’s epic conclusion.
Gritty and confronting
The Crucible trilogy, in essence, is an extremely bold and gritty work of fantasy that doesn’t balk at the thought of gore or attempt to shirk possible controversy. The Wounded Hawk does contain a number of particularly confronting scenes and depictions of graphic violence, some of which are sexual in nature. Those who are averse to such content may want to give this one a miss. For those who are not deterred, most of these scenes are not merely gratuitous, but serve a purpose within the greater context of the story and aim to provoke thought in the reader. For instance an elaborate and rather shocking deception takes place in the course of the story that, while serving its distinct purpose, causes substantial hurt to various individuals. Desperate times may call for desperate measures, but do the ends really justify the means in this case? Or could a better way to the same goal have been found? One should also be aware that Douglass presents a unique reimagining of Christian mythos throughout the series that may be considered sacreligious or offensive to some readers. While some religious icons are portrayed in a sympathetic, though unconventional, light, many others come across far more negatively.
Why should you read this book?
This brilliant and daring example of character driven historical fantasy more than fulfills the promises of the previous book. It is an engrossing, well-plotted, and thought provoking novel with an interesting premise that is relatively unique in the fantasy genre. Even if you were unsure about The Nameless Day, The Wounded Hawk is definitely worth a look and has previously converted many critics of the series. If you have enjoyed The Crucible trilogy so far, I would strongly recommend that you get your hands on a copy of this as soon as possible. It may also be wise to grab a copy of the third installment, The Crippled Angel, while you’re at it, as once you start reading you may find yourself not wanting to stop or endure a tortourously suspenseful wait to find out what happens next.
August 24, 2024
It's not often that a second book in a series is better than the first but in this case it is. I enjoyed this book far more than the previous one. For one thing, Thomas isn't as insufferable, therefore I am not as bothered by him. He still has his annoying and maddening moments but not as many as in book one. And although most of the men were quite unlikable, most of the women were quite remarkable. Points scored for that! Most of all, the revelation and twist at the end about God/angels/heaven/Jesus, etc., was totally unexpected...and very interesting! I didn't see it coming and it blew my mind. We also finally understand who Margaret actually is and what role she plays, what's in the mysterious chest and how Thomas Neville is supposed to rid the the world of demons. This is a really good historical fantasy. And although there are some religion undertones to it, most of the story is focused on historical events. I'm off to start the third and final installment!
July 5, 2018
don't read any more
August 2, 2019
Better than the first
Want to read
May 15, 20222P
November 29, 2022
It's been a while since I read this series, but I remember 1) really liking it, and 2) thinking that The Wounded Hawk is where things really started getting good.
December 2, 2007
So now we've got the nobleman turned priest turned nobleman, married to a demon who has given him a daughter, caught up in intrigues of the English court, all in the quest for a mysterious chest that holds answers to everything related to Thomas Neville's duty to rid the world of demons.
Thomas' character remains irritatingly narrow-minded, but then again, that fits him perfectly for this tale: it wouldn't move the way it does if he were likeable :-)
Most of the important scenes happen in England, where a new untried king turns out to be arrogant, impudent, and overall bad news for the country, whose peasants are getting more and more angry about taxes and being treated like chattel. Joan of Arc is getting her act together in France too, on *her* Archangel Michael-given mission of God against the English.
Definitely interesting stuff, and a great read.
Thomas' character remains irritatingly narrow-minded, but then again, that fits him perfectly for this tale: it wouldn't move the way it does if he were likeable :-)
Most of the important scenes happen in England, where a new untried king turns out to be arrogant, impudent, and overall bad news for the country, whose peasants are getting more and more angry about taxes and being treated like chattel. Joan of Arc is getting her act together in France too, on *her* Archangel Michael-given mission of God against the English.
Definitely interesting stuff, and a great read.
July 14, 2016
In this second book in her Crucible series, Sara Douglass continues her tale of a slightly alternate reality in 14th-century Europe in which Thomas Neville has been told that the fate of Christendom rests on his success in disrupting the plans of demons infiltrating the ranks of European courts. As times passes, however, the distinction between good and evil becomes ever hazier. The books are much more focused on history than on religion, and this is a fascinating period in European history. I should also say that all of the books in this series have fantastic cover art.
February 7, 2014
This was so much more engaging than the first book, giving the reader characters that could be empathized with a bit more, and allowing them to develop interest in as well as like or dislike of the characters. It also ramped up the fantasy aspects of the story considerably, which kept the story engaging. The ending was a little overzealous in graphic description though, and left me fairly disturbed.
February 18, 2008
I loved this second in the series of books by Sara Douglass - this book dealt with my favorite characters more deeply than the first book. I think I loved Margaret the best - she needs to get Thomas to give his soul to her in order to save mankind - so you think. Margaret is not what she seems to be. Nor or any of the characters you grow to know and love.
October 21, 2013
I just couldn't get into this book! Quit about halfway thru (250 pages). I couldn't get into the "historical" setting (let's just say that the way Douglass pictures the time period and the way I do are too different), or the whole angels and demons plot. Basically, too much talk about "love," and too much talk in general, for this reader.
May 22, 2015
If I had read "The Nameless Day","" the first book in this series"," before this one"," I would have understood that Joan of Arc as a contemporary of Bolingbroke was Dramatic License rather than History Gone Wrong; once I got past that"," the novel really gripped me. The personal demons stalking Thomas Neville kept me on the edge of my chair.
December 20, 2010
Continuing the excellent story launched in the first volume of this series, in books 2 and 3 the characters develop, suspicion and conspiracies abound, and the series marches towards its fascinating conclusion.
January 16, 2012
This one started off a bit slow. After pages 200ish it picked up. This series is getting better the more I read it. This one reveals more twists in the plot. The original story line has changed huge, I can't wait for the next book!
Read
February 12, 2013There were some parts of this book that were gruesomely graphic. I understand why they were put in the book, but it did kind of sicken me to my stomach.
As it is the second book in a trilogy, the mystery and intrigue were built and it did spur you on to the third book.
As it is the second book in a trilogy, the mystery and intrigue were built and it did spur you on to the third book.
July 30, 2016
This book is one of my least favorite that Douglass wrote. There was too much awful violence and rapes depicted in it (in detail) for me to enjoy it as I had her other books. That being said, this book had a great plot line, awesome twists and a great surprise at the end.
August 2, 2007
Much better than the first book, The Nameless Day.
March 23, 2008
A very good trilogy about 14th century religion with a fantasy twist
April 26, 2008
More of the same as book 1. This explains more of the Angel stuff.
October 7, 2009
book two of the Crucible Series. SO GREAT!
October 30, 2010
The story is getting more intriguing. Book 3 ought to be good.
January 30, 2012
This is a book for adults only. It is also a book I had no trouble putting down. It plods. I ended up skimming along as fast as I could.
Read
September 6, 2013The Crucible #2
January 5, 2017
Horrifying
January 31, 2014
it was better then the first one
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews